Poultry plague in the Wiener Neustadt district: precautions and information obligations

Poultry plague in the Wiener Neustadt district: precautions and information obligations

Currently, increased measures to combat the poultry plague were introduced in the Wiener Neustadt district after outbreaks were found in other parts of Austria. This classification as a "area with increased risk" is a preventive measure to control the spread of the disease. As the chairman of the district farmers' chamber, Manuel Evest, said, no cases have occurred in the district itself. On November 13, 2024, however, cases occurred in Lower and Upper Austria that are the reason for this alarm level.

The classification is particularly important because it signals warnings for poultry holders. "These measures are crucial in order to reduce the further spread of the poultry plague to a minimum," emphasized Ergag in an interview.

meaning of the risk classification

The classification "area with increased risk" means that certain areas, especially near rivers and lakes, are considered potential danger zones. These waters are often resting places for wild birds that can spread the virus. It is all the more important to act immediately in the event of discoveries of dead birds and to report them to the district administrative authority immediately. It is urgently advised not to touch or take these animals.

There are strict requirements for the owners of poultry. Among other things, ducks and geese must be kept strictly separated from other poultry, as well as ensure different feeding and drinking methods to avoid contact with possible virus carriers. Feeding should take place inside the stable, and water should not be carried out with surface water.

In addition, poultry holders are obliged to report any signs of a disease immediately. This includes a significant decline in feed intake or egg production. Suspected cases must be reported to the responsible authority immediately in order to then be able to take appropriate measures.

As part of these high security precautions, a reporting obligation for all poultry holders is also introduced to ensure a timely examination of all companies. This is critical so that the veterinary authorities can react quickly and possible outbreaks of poultry plague can be contained. It is therefore asked to register for private owners who have only a few chickens. An online form for this can be found on the Homepage of the Lower Austrian state government.

"I appeal to all poultry owners to take the new measures seriously and implement them. Only in this way can we together to protect the health of our stocks," concluded his message.

These developments show the urgency of the situation and the need to work with all poultry holders to prevent the spread of the poultry plague. For more information about the topic of poultry plague and the special editions in the district, see the current reporting on www.meinbezirk.at .